RI hosts ASEAN science Olympics

JAKARTA: Minister of National Education Abdul Malik Fajar opened on Saturday the ASEAN mathematics and science Olympics for primary schools, with a call for cooperation among member countries in improving the quality of education.

"The event is aimed at seeking a quality standard of basic education, specifically in languages, mathematics and science," Malik said.

He said he expected the scientific event would support student exchange programs among ASEAN countries.

Chairman of the event's organizing committee Indra Jati Sidi said some 60 fifth-year and sixth-year students from nine ASEAN countries were participating in the Olympics, the first of its kind.

The students come from Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia. The other ASEAN member country, Singapore, is not represented.

During the event, which will run until Oct. 23, participants will be vying for three gold medals, five silvers and eight bronzes. -- Antara